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The eco-friendly Neem oil formulation which has proved effective for malaria control can now be used to kill mosquito larvae at breeding sites. Pune based scientist Bhalchandra Pathak in consultation with scientists from the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), has used extracts of neem seed oil to produce a biopesticide to kill mosquitoes. The seeds contain 99% biologically active compounds, have low toxicity and are less likely to induce resistance. The Central Insecticides Board (CIB) and Registration has given a permanent registration to Pathak for commercial use of the neem-based formula. The Nashik Municipal Corporation is already using this biopesticide. Pathak is in talks with the Pune and Sangli civic bodies too.
